When I saw your studio was taking part in the Open Studios weekend, I was thrilled. I have admired your work for some time. I knew seeing your home would be a treat.

I remember the first time I learned of your incredible talent. Ten years ago, I was designing a brochure that included a photo of a wooden table that was part of one of your local commissions. I’d never heard of trompe l’oeil, but I fell in love with it the moment I saw it. It was art, but so different than anything I’d ever experienced. It had pieces and secrets. You could look at it for hours and later see something completely new — an unexpected layer you had to look deeply to see or, my favorite, a near-secret flash of whimsy.

I remember the second time I came across your work, too, inside St. Peters Catholic Church. When my husband and I were married there, one of my favorite memories was showing my young nephew the tiny green lizard that lives there.

To be able to study your intricate stage models, memories and magic memorabilia in person this weekend was a few hours I will forever cherish. You have brought so much to our community. Not just in your work on behalf of the arts community and Bruce’s efforts to bring new life to the old Fox Theatre, but for the sheer magic and boundless creativity you so thoughtfully breathe into everyday life.

There was much I wanted to say to you last Saturday. I loved experiencing your home’s secrets. Being able to closely study at all the history, that teeny-tiny rollercoaster, the green fairy, delicate bird’s nest, sumptuous details and the photos of your love’s megawatt smile.

Thank you for the beautiful reminders that curiosity is something to be rewarded.

Sincerely,

Julie Turner

P.S. — I knew I couldn’t pick up the house key, but I tried anyway.

The Thank You Project is a yearlong Wordsmith letter writing and blog project. I’m recognizing and thanking people who enrich my life and make my community an even better place to live.